Did you know that there were more than one million fires last year? Many people wishfully think that they’ll never have to deal with a fire. However, the reality is that fires are so common that you likely will encounter one in your life.
When this day comes it’s important to know what to do and how to handle equipment like a fire extinguisher. One easy way to remember how to use the equipment is by memorizing the fire extinguisher PASS method. Luckily, we’ve made this article to teach you everything you need to know about this method. Let’s get started!
What to Do When There Is a Fire
When someone notices a fire often the first instinct that arises is panic. However, it’s important to remain calm and follow these four simple steps. It’s also vital that you keep up-to-date fire extinguishers near areas that are prone to fire, like the kitchen.
1. Find An Escape Route
Before you try to deal with the fire it’s important to have an extra strategy.
Identify and exit and make a plan to escape if the fire gets out of hand. Don’t risk your life. If at any point you feel endangered, then exit the building promptly.
2. Get Your Fire Extinguisher and Stand Back
Next, locate the nearest fire extinguisher. Make sure you stand back and don’t get too close to the fire. You should always keep at least six to eight feet between yourself and the fire.
3. Use the Fire Extinguisher PASS Method
Next, it’s time to discharge the fire extinguisher. Remembering how to use a fire extinguisher in an emergency can be difficult. So, to help you remember, fire workers came up with the acronym PASS. Here’s what the method entails:
- P - pull the pin from the fire extinguisher
- A - aim the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire
- S - squeeze either the lever or handle to set off the extinguisher
- S - sweep the nozzle of the fire extinguisher while keeping it firmly planted at the base
4. Call the Fire Department If Needed
If the fire extinguisher is ineffective at putting out the fire, then it’s important to call for help. Exit the building and get to a safe area. Once you're safe, call 911 and ask for the fire department.
In some cases, you should do this even when you put out the fire to make sure that it’s safe.
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We hope this article helped you learn how to perform the fire extinguisher PASS method. As you can see, the method is fairly simple and easy to remember.
However, keep in mind that the stressful nature of fires can make it difficult to act under pressure. As such, we recommend committing the PASS method to memory so you can stay cool under the heat. Did you enjoy this article? If the answer is yes, then you’re in the right place. Keep reading to find more topics that you’re sure to love.